The B.R.A.T. Diet

TREATMENT OF NAUSEA, VOMITING AND/OR DIARRHEA THE “BRAT DIET”

NAUSEA, or a sick queasy feeling in the stomach maybe accompanied by the desire to vomit or actual VOMITING of foodstuff contents of the gastrointestinal system. They are symptoms of some underlying process frequently related to diseases of the gastrointestinal system, which may be caused by viruses, food poisoning, medications, alcohol, anxiety and pregnancy. In addition, nausea may be a sign of an upper respiratory illness with a post-nasal drip.

DIARRHEA is a symptom of gastrointestinal disease resulting in loose, watery often frequent bowel movements. It may be “acute”, beginning suddenly and resolving over a few days with dietary discretion, or of a “chronic” ongoing process. Causes of this symptom are similar to the ones listed for nausea and vomiting.

BRAT: Is a acronym for bananas, rice, apples and toast.

TREATMENT: A short-term gastrointestinal (stomach or bowel) illness requires a change in your diet to begin the recuperation process.

For Nausea and/or Vomiting: First six hours: In the immediate six or so hours after vomiting has stopped, it is best to give your stomach a rest. Following a period of one to two hours, suck on a hard candy or popsicle (no chewing). Then progress to ice chips or sips of water if nausea persists.

First 24 hours: (Day One) Gradually add clear liquids if the vomiting has ceased. Beginning with a sip or two every ten minutes is a good way to start. Suggestions include water, apple juice, flat soda, weak tea, jello (in liquid or gelatin form), broth or bouillon (clear based from non-greasy soup). If symptoms of nausea or vomiting return, begin the process again, taking nothing by mouth for an hour or so.

Make an appointment if you are not getting better despite dietary compliance after 24 hours, if you have a problem with chronic diarrhea or if you have additional symptoms of fever, weight loss, lightheadedness (feeling of faintness), rectal bleeding or abdominal pain.